New to eMTB, looking for info & recommendations

[Hatcho]

I bought a Gen 3 Specialized Turbo Levo back in 2023 and have loved every minute of it. I do some mtb trails, but mostly the gentler stuff nowadays as I don't bounce like a 20 year old anymore. Levo also been great just for riding forest tracks, fire roads and reliability wise has never had an issue. If you can, stretch to getting a full suspension bike, it;'s nice to be able to sit and let the bike soak it up when going over bumpier stuff. These days, that even applies to cycling on tarmac roads! Nicest thing about an mtb is you can take it to more removed places and enjoy the quiet solitude. here's a nice wee view of Dublin from the hills behind the city.

 

[Mr Bean]

I've just taken delivery of a Trek Powerfly 800wh bike, list at just over £3k, after salary sacrifice just under £2k. No long-term experience, but what I can vouch for, is that it seems to tick all the boxes I was looking for.

Had a few more rides on it. I'm very impressed with the componentry and the integration of the motor/switchgear. At around 25kg, it's not the lightest on the market but with my limited experience, I'm happy.

Trek Powerfly+ 4 800 Wh Gen 5 2026 | Tredz Bikes

Trek Powerfly+ 4 800 Wh Gen 5 2026 - Electric Mountain Bike £3,150.00 or just £65.63 per month with 0% APR finance. All Electric bikes are built by Cytech qualified mechanics, delivered free to the UK mainland & include 14 days free bike insurance. Price Match. Buy Now.

www.tredz.co.uk

 

[Hubs]

Things to consider:
what does your local bike shop sell, as they will be servicing it..!
That might cover brand of bike, but also brand of motor, and there’s a few to choose from.
Also, worth thinking about the group set on the bike. Go as high end as you can as it’s stronger and typically more reliable. Expect the chain to wear a lot quicker than seems reasonable. You’ll likely be looking at shimano or sram, less campagnolo around.
Belt drive is around, but likely to be more expensive.
if possible , see if it has ‘better’ wheels - hope hubs, magic rims make a strong combo
Wheel size has got complex now, with ‘mullets’ being big front wheel, smaller back, typically 29/27. You’ll see all variations around. i’d suggest not worrying.
FWIW, i’ve run Specialized emtbs since 2017 and they’ve been great. Also got an Orange e-bike which is an amazing all roads/ downhill machine.
As a complete aside, Brompton has come out with the G series, also in electric, with 20 inch off road tyres and a custom electric motor. If you’re not doing wild downhills, I’d have a look. Competent and the fold gives it transportability and storage options.

 

[Udders]

Get a yellow one

View attachment 487007

A yellow white bike!

 

[Udders]

Another Cube rider here.



Mines an old model though. A 2019 one. I’ve done a LOT of miles on it though.

 

[Squonk]

And another! One44 SLX Race Something or other. Can't remember exactly. Been out a few times and it's much more capable than I am. Decided on full suspension for comfort, and don't regret it. Very impressive bit of kit. Needs mudguards.

 

[neiljitsu]

I have a cube stereo hybrid. I love it more than my gs